USDA also further detailed organic calf-rearing standards. "Dairy young stock may be housed in individual pens under the following conditions: until weaning, providing that they have enough room to turn around, lie down, stretch out when lying down, get up, rest and groom themselves; individual animal pens shall be designed and located so that each animal can see, smell and hear other calves," wrote USDA officials. "Dairy young stock shall be group-housed after weaning."

Outside of those potential adjustments, the organic standard for dairy should be relatively status quo. For poultry there are some major changes, including egg-laying hens needing the equivalent of 2 square feet per bird both inside and outside. Meat birds require 1 foot of space for every 5 pounds.

Interested parties have until June 13, 2016, to submit comments on the proposed rules.